"I'm happy to be presenting my new program for getting you ready for this Saturday's Ironman Texas. In just 1 day, you will be prepared to take on the 2.4 mile swim, 112 (or 94ish) mile bike ride, and full 26.2 mile marathon. This program is valued at over $1,500, but today I'm excited to offer it for...FREE! And it doesn't matter if the closest you've been to a 5K was a 4K television at Costco. You've got this!"

This sounds a bit ridiculous, right? All the positive thinking and inspirational memes in the world couldn't get you ready for an Ironman by tomorrow. Even elite athletes can struggle through a race such as Ironman triathlon, let alone an un-trained couch potato. AND YET many are conditioned to believe that years and decades of poor lifestyle choices can be reversed in days. It is simply not true. Change requires time, effective strategy, and motivation.

If you feel like you are ready to make a commitment to better health, improved relationships, a better job, or tackling a huge athletic endeavor like a triathlon, it is best to PREPARE.

Here are 5 strategies to making a Life Turnaround:

Write your goal. SMART Goals are effective.

Share with a confidant. Don't share it to your Twitter followers if you don't really know or like them.

Get a coach/mentor/professional. Especially if it's something worthwhile that deserves professional support.